A cyclone carries Dorothy and her dog, Toto, to the magical land of Oz, where they encounter all the famous characters from the pen of L. Frank Baum: the Cowardly Lion, the Tin Woodsman, the rubber-legged Scarecrow, Glinda the Good Witch, and the evil Witch of the West, who is determined to destroy Dorothy and steal the secret of the silver slippers.

Each of us has a life song, a soundtrack of our lives, with individual songs that bring back certain memories, good times and bad times.

Ron Ruppel has developed this musical show that tells his Life Song. It's an ambitious project, and Ron has involved about 25 of Cumberland's best musicians to tell the story. You'll surely recognize some of the songs and discover some good new favorites. Ron has written three original songs for this show. Other songs come from popular, country, Christian and Broadway shows.

CHARLOTTE'S WEB

Charlotte's Web has been named "the best American children's book of the past two-hundred years." All the enchanting characters are here: Wilbur, the irresistible young pig who desperately wants to avoid the butcher, Fern, a girl who understands what animals say to each other, Templeton, the gluttonous rat who can occasionally be talked into a good deed, the Zuckerman family, the Arables, and most of all, the extraordinary spider, Charlotte, who proves to be a true friend and a good writer. Determined to save Wilbur, Charlotte begins her campaign with the miracle of her web in which she writes, "Some pig". Its the beginning of a victorious campaign which ultimately ends with the now-safe Wilbur doing what is most important to Charlotte. This is a beautiful, knowing play about friendship that will give both actors and audience an evening of enchantment.

The Stringsmiths

The Stringsmiths bluegrass band has produced its first album, and were going to celebrate with an album-release party at 7 p.m. Friday, April 28. Tickets, which are $10, will be available at the door.

Ole and Lena Win a Cruise

Sat April 1 7:00pm | Sun April 2 2:00pmEvery year Lena listens to her friends at the Curler and Chat talk about their vacations, but year after year she is disappointed. Ole's idea of a vacation is going to the Muskrat Lodge's Annual Convention, usually a camping event held in Potsdam, at a park only 2 miles from their farm! This year, Lena has decided that she and Ole are going on a romantic vacation, even if it kills him.
Meanwhile, Ole won the grand prize raffle at the Muskrat Lodge's annual "Don't get your tail caught in the trap" celebration. Ole and Sven didn't even remember that there had been a raffle, let alone what he might have won. Rumor has it that the grand prize might be a cruise to exotic ports in the Caribbean: something Ole wants no part of.

Will Ole talk Lena into going camping instead of bobbing around on a cruise ship "like a fishing boat in a walleye chop on opening day," or will Lena finally get the romantic vacation she has dreamt about? Join in the side splitting fun for the whole family in "Ole and Lena Win a Cruise".

Escanaba in da MoonlightThu Fri Sat October 20,21,22
Thu Fri Sat October 27,28,29
All shows are at 7pm

When the Soady clan reunites for the opening day of deer season at the family's Upper Peninsula camp, thirty-five-year-old Reuben Soady brings with him the infamous reputation of being the oldest Soady in the history of the Soadys never to bag a buck. In a hunting story to beat all hunting stories, ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT spins a hilarious tale of humor, horror, and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book.

Death by DesignWed Thu Fri Sat August 24-27 7pm

What happens when you mix the brilliant wit of Noel Coward with the intricate plotting of Agatha Christie? Set during a weekend in an English country manor in 1932, Death by Design is a delightful and mysterious mash-up of two of the greatest English writers of all time. Edward Bennett (Phil Warner), a playwright, and his wife Sorel Bennett (Chris Johansen), an actress, flee London and head to Cookham after a disastrous opening night. But various guests arrive unexpectedly a conservative politician (Kelly Duncan), a fiery socialist (Larry Werner), a nearsighted ingénue (Tia Duncan), a zany modern dancer (Chris Olson) each with a long-held secret. When one of the guests is murdered, it's left to Bridgit (Sharai Hefty), the feisty Irish maid with a macabre interest in homicide, to solve the crime. Death by Design is more than homage it's a new classic.

The Simple Dan ShowSaturday, August 13 7pm

Dan has been writing his own songs for quite a while, and has organized them into a show. And as with most songwriters, for every song there's a story that goes with it. The Simple Dan Show- it'll be a fun night- come on down!

Grand Reopening and Thank You Party w/ John Beland and Dawn MarieFriday, July 22 6pm Cake 7pm Show

Thanks to our generous donors, contractors and volunteers, we've been making the arts center a more convenient and comfortable place for almost a year. It started with the ADA restroom last fall, followed by new deck and entrance this spring, and new restrooms this summer. So -we're throwing a grand re-opening party!

We'll start with music on our new Shakespearean deck (Couldn't you just see the balcony scene being played there?). We'll have cake and ice cream social on the lawn at the same time. Then we'll move in and listen to the music of nationally known John Beland- guitarist to the stars, and new country singer Dawn Marie.

Alice plunges down the rabbit hole and becomes involved in that madcap and deliciously satiric series of adventures immortalized by Lewis Carroll. Dramatized as a series of fourteen episodes from Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, this play uses a mix of children and adults in the cast. A kaleidoscope of action and madness, suspense and frustration, color, pageantry, and magic!

Ole and Lena's 50th Wedding Anniversary and Vow Renewal

Spring is a popular time for wedding celebrations. It's also a good time to celebrate wedding anniversaries, which is what Ole & Lena plan to do - twice as a matter of fact - at the ETC Arts Center on April 23 and 24. And no anniversary party would be complete without a hot-dish supper, which will be available before two performances of Ole & Lena's 50th Wedding Anniversary and Vow Renewal.

The legendary Scandinavian couple would like a good turnout for their celebration in the former church that is Cumberland's performing arts center. The shows are at 7 p.m. on Saturday the 23rd and at 1 p.m. on Sunday, the 24th. The Saturday dinner is at 6 p.m. and the Sunday meal is at noon. Tickets are $20 for dinner and show and $10 for those who want to see the show without hot dish.

You can purchase tickets at Peter & Annie's World Market or reserve them by calling Peter & Annie's at 715-822-9959.

Ole and Lena are played by Michael and Julie Bateson, a husband-wife acting team from Rosemount, Minn. The Batesons have been performing Ole and Lena for more than 10 years for a wide variety of groups and theater audiences across the upper Midwest. The Batesons say the interactive play coming to Cumberland deals with tension over Lena wanting a vow-renewal like she saw on Dr. Phil's show and Ole wanting to get out of town for a fishing tournament.
The Cumberland Arts Center is located at 1595 2nd Ave.

The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II's out-of-this-world origins and intent towards global domination!

BBQ and Bluegrass featuring The StringsmithsSaturday, February 27 6pm BBQ, 7pm Show

On Feb. 27, ETC will present some hot music for a cold night in our second annual Barbecue & Bluegrass event. The Stringsmiths, our local bluegrass group, will play after a pulled-pork dinner served by Vickie Komarek, owner of Peter & Annie's World Market. Tickets are $20 for the dinner and concert and $10 for the concert only. Dinner is at 6 p.m., and the concert begins at 7. Last year's B&B was a full house. If you want to reserve tickets, call Peter & Annie's at 715-822-9959.

Cumberland Cabaret XIIIBreak out your old instrument, brush up on your dance moves, grab your buddies to form a singing group, or practice your karaoke. Then come to auditions Saturday, January 9 from 9-11AM. Rehearsal will be Friday, January 22 with the show on Saturday, January 23 at 7 PM.

For performers, the theme we're going for this year is a coffeehouse, (think beatniks and folk music) so see if you can work that into your act. We can help you find accompaniment and costumes, if needed - just show up to auditions with your ideas.
Community Choir Christmas ConcertSunday, December 13, 2015, St Anthony's Catholic Church

Odd Couple (Female Version) at ETC Nov. 6, 7 and 8

Having played to large crowds during Cumberlands Rutabaga Festival in August, the wild and wacky Odd Couple (Female Version) will be playing for three more performances at the ETC Cumberland Arts Center Nov. 6-8. Evening performances on Friday and Saturday will be at 7 p.m., and the Sunday matinee is at 4 p.m.

The female version of this classic comedy was written by Neil Simon 20 years after he wrote the male version that featured Oscar Madison, a slob, and the compulsively neat Felix Unger. The play being done at the downtown Cumberland theater replaces Oscar with Olive and Felix with Florence. They, like the male odd couple, struggle to live together despite their very different habits and personalities.

Olive Madison is played by Chris Johansen, and Florence Unger by Dorene Weltzin.

Tickets, which are $8 each, are available at Peter & Annies World Market in downtown Cumberland. They can be reserved by calling Peter & Annies at 715-822-9959. Tickets will also be available at the Arts Center, 1595 Second Ave., the day of the performance.

In addition to Olive and Florence, the characters in the play are Jesus and Manolo Constazuela, two Spanish brothers who live in the apartment building where the women live after separating from their husbands. The double date arranged by Olive does not go as planned, to say the least. Jesus is played by Larry Werner, and Manolo by Denny Epple.

They will be joined by the group of women who gather in the odd couples New York apartment to play Trivial Pursuit: Mickey the cop (Hope Lee Vicich), Sylvie (Veronica Vicich), Renee (Chris Olson) and Vera (Dana Warwick).

The director is Eva Srubar.

ETC (Enrichment Through Culture), Cumberlands arts council, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary as the citys non-profit umbrella organization for the visual and performing arts. The Cumberland Arts Center is a former church on the citys main street that was converted into a performance center with theatrical lighting and sound systems.

Advance Tickets available at Peter & Annies World Market
Tickets sold at the door
Ticket Price: $8.00

PG 13Parents strongly cautioned
Strong language, not suitable for young children

Neil Simons comedy The Odd Couple has been produced for the stage, for the big screen and for two network series on television.
The original Odd Couple, which is about two mismatched guys whose marriages have broken up, was written by Simon in 1965. In 1985, the famous playwright wrote a female version featuring Florence Unger, instead of Felix Unger, and Olive Madison, rather than Oscar Madison.

The names and genders have changed from the original play about roommates Felix and Oscar, but the plot is the same: Olive, a slob who concedes she is so sloppy that she leaves a mess after reading a book, takes in Florence, who is compulsively neat and, unlike Olive, always on time and proper. They are separated from their husbands, and they try to coexist in a New York apartment
Upstairs are two brothers, Manolo and Jesus Constazuela, who have moved to New York from Spain, and Olive arranges a dinner date that -- to say the least -- doesnt turn out as Olive had planned.

Other characters in this comedy are four women friends of Olive and Florence who gather regularly to play Trivial Pursuit and get caught up in the drama as Florence deals with depression after her husband asks for a divorce, and as Olive deals with a roommate who is constantly cleaning everything, including the telephone. Dont wipe the telephone, Olive shouts at one point. Some of my favorite fingerprints are on that telephone.

Leads in the play are two veterans of ETC productions Chris Johansen as Olive and Dorene Weltzin as Florence. It is directed by Eva Srubar.

CUMBERLAND ETC PRESENTS JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTARPerformances will be at the Cumberland Arts Center
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, June 4,5,6,11,12, and 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday June 7 and 14th at 2:00 p.m.
Ticket $14.00, and are available at Peter & Annies (715-822-9959)

Charles Peterson sings the part of Jesus, Jeremy Westin portrays
Judas, and Mary Magdalene is played by Kiara Conners.
Other soloists include Albin Peterson, Randy Skow-Anderson, Ron Ruppel, Amy Lundgren and Jim Schweiger.
Many other local actors play multiple parts- disciples, money-changers at the Temple, the sick and bereaved, and the angry mob at the trial. John Westin is Musical Director, and Dave Evenson directs the production.

Cumberland High School's "Too Much Drama" Presents

This comedy is overall a fun, light-footed romp and is the 1937 winner of the Pulitzer Prize in Drama. Alice is the normal one in a family of eccentrics and shes fallen in love with Tony, the son of a strait-laced Wall Street banker. Alices sister is a dancer and a candy maker. Her mother is a playwright who has yet to finish a play. Her father builds fireworks in the basement, and her Grandpa has left lifes rat race but is now dealing with the IRS as he hasnt paid income tax for three decades.

You Cant Take It With You is a charming comedy which has many screwball, high-society elements common in so many plays written in the 1930s and features themes that still are relevant today.

Show times at the Cumberland ETC:Thursday, March 26th 2015 at 7:00 PM
Friday, March 27th 2015 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, March 28th 2015 at 7:00 PM

Fall Musical: Spitfire Grill

ETC has been working on James Valcq quaint production of The Spitfire Grill musical.

The plot is based on a feisty parolee Percy Talbott(Lauren Thornwall) following her dream to experience the magnificent brilliance of the Northern Wisconsin Fall colors. She finds herself in a small town called Gilead, which could be Cumberland. Percy lands a job working at the Spitfire Grill that is owned by an ornery woman, Hannah Ferguson (Christine Johansen).

The Spitfire Grill is for sale, but there are no takers for the only diner in the depressed town, so newcomer, Percy comes up with a raffle winning idea which turns the townspeople in tumultuous directions as they realize they couldn't see the forest for the trees.

The music is folksy, charming, powerfully embracing and will pull at your small town heartstrings. The play is directed by Ann Kysely and others in the cast are Carol Houghdahl, Tom Toftness, Jeremy Westin, Val Dehline and Tommy Youston.

One of the great Broadway successes in recent history, this ingeniously constructed play offers a rare and skillful blending of two priceless theatrical ingredients: gasp-inducing thrills and spontaneous laughter. Dealing with the devious machinations of a writer of thrillers whose recent offerings have been flops, and who is prepared to go to any lengths to improve his fortunes, Deathtrap provides twists and turns and sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be held spellbound until the very last moment.

Veteran actor Dan Hoffmann plays the down on his luck playwright Sidney Bruhl, who comes up with an ingenious plan to improve his fortunes. He is aided by former student and aspiring writer Clifford, played by newcomer Jim Tempesta. Sidney's conflicted wife is played by Ann Kysely. The cast is rounded out by Meg Atkins, playing the fey Helga Ten Dorp, and newcomer Sherman Hanks, playing Sidney's lawyer. The play is ably directed by Phil Amundson & Mike Clay.

Tickets are available at Peter and Annie's in downtown Cumberland, or if not sold out, at the door before each performance. Admission is $8.

Performance dates: Wed.-Sat., Aug. 21-24.
Showtime: 7:00PM.
Tickets are $8 and on sale now at Peter & Annies, downtown Cumberland, or at the door

THE STORY:Nick, (Ryan Mathison), is a single, Italian-American guy from New Jersey. His parents retired and moved to Florida. That doesn't mean his family isn't still in Jersey. In fact, he sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. This is routine until he has to tell them that he's been offered a dream job. The job he's been waiting formarketing executivewould take him away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents. He tells them, but the news doesn't sit so well. Thus begins a series of schemes to keep Nick around. How could he betray his family's love to move to Seattle for a job, wonder his grandparents? Well, Frank, (Brian Keeler), Aida, (Chris Johansen), Nunzio, (Mike Clay), and Emma, (Eva Srubar), do their level best, and that includes bringing to dinner the lovelyand singleCaitlin O'Hare, (Dana Warwick), as baitwe won't give the ending away here.

ETC presents Meredith Willsons well beloved The Music Man at the Cumberland Arts Center June 6-8 and June 13-15 at 7 PM, with 2 PM matinees on Sundays, June 9 and 16. The show is set just about 100 years ago, July 4, 1912, in fictional River City Iowa. Professor Harold Hill (Layton Nosbush), part con man and part magician, sets out to fleece the town of its money as he organizes a youth band. Throughout the show he stays one step ahead of Mayor Shinn (Ed Hougdahl), the constable (Steve Wickre) and the deputized School Board (Albin Peterson, Jim Kerr, Jeremy Westin and Dave Evenson).

At first Hill is distrusted by piano teacher and librarian, Marian Paroo (Shanna Fraiser), but she is finally won over as her Mother (Carol Hougdahl) and brother Winthrop (Zach de la Cruz) are taken in by his charms. Along the way we get to see the Independence Day preparations and celebration, with performances by the Ladies Auxiliary led by Mayors wife, Eulalie MacKecknie Shinn (Chris Johansen), and other auxiliary members played by Jessica de la Cruz, Sharai Hefty, Charlotte Shanahan, Sheri Johnson, Barb Ankarlo, Jeanne Shanahan. Stan Nosbush, plays Hills co-conspirator Marcellus Washburn. BJ Brenna plays Charlie Cowell- out to get Hill for his giving salesmen a bad reputation.

Anne Kysely is directing, with assistance from Dave Evenson, who also is set designer. John Westin is Music Director and Rachael Korntved is choreographer. Diane Thorp and Toni Ritchie are costume designers. Pit band includes Dorene Weltzin, Lisa Barker, Nancy Keeler and Josh Dorn.

All tickets are $14, and are available at Peter and Annies in downtown Cumberland. The Arts Center is at 1595 2nd Ave (Also Highway 63) north of downtown Cumberland

David Hile
Saturday April 6th 2013 7:00 pm
Tickets $5.00 at the door of the ETC.

David Hile will be kicking off the 2013 ETC Concert series on Saturday night April 6th at 7:00 p.m. at the ETC Arts Center in Cumberland WI.

David grew up in Cumberland and was very involved in the local music and theatre scene. As a solo singer/guitarist he has appeared in ETCís annual Cabaret Cumberland and Celebration of the Arts every year since 2006, Other favorite venues have been the 5 O'clock Club, the Shell Lake Amphitheatre, the State Theatre in Eau Claire (Starquest) and private events such as weddings, benefits, and graduation parties.

Performing with the band "Living Hiatus" as their lead singer and guitar player, David has performed at the Cumberland Fourth of July Celebration, Launchpad, Club Cumberland, Northwoodís Brew Pub, Kinshipís Night in Paradise, the Washburn County Fair, and various dances and benefits.

David started acting at ETC when he was in second grade and continued through High School. Some roles he may be remembered for are: Joseph in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat", Sky Masterson in "Guys and Dolls", and Smudge in "Forever Plaid".

After graduating from Cumberland High School in 2008 David moved to St Paul to attend McNally Smith Music College. In 2009 he was cast in "The Buddy Holly Story" at The History Theatre in St Paul, and that was the beginning of a long association with that theatre. He has worked in various departments and is now on their full time staff, currently as the Assistant Box Office Manager.

The evening of the 6th will be an informal concert with wine and beer available. Audience members will hear many familiar tunes, from the Beatles to Warren Zevon.

The ETC Art Center is located at 1595 2nd Ave Cumberland Wisconsin, across the street from the Elementary School. Tickets are $5 and will be available at the door.

Saturday January 19th 2013 at 7:00pm at the ETC

The Stringsmiths will be performing Dec. 28th & 29th at 7pm at the ETC.Tickets are $5.00 and will be sold at Peter $ Annie's. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door.

The local bluegrass band The Stringsmiths will once again perform at the Cumberland ETC theater on Friday December 28 and Saturday December 29. Concerts begin at 7pm. Tickets are $5 and available at Peter and Annies in downtown Cumberland. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door.

The group is composed of Chris Landstrom playing banjo, Nate Elmer on the mandolin, Bob Andrewson playing guitar, Barb Landstrom playing bass, and Mary Plimblett on the guitar and bass.

This is the Stringsmiths second concert at ETC. Their first performance in April was a sell-out, so tickets for the December concerts should be purchased early.

ETC Announces New Music Series!Cumberland ETC has unveiled a new music concert series encouraging local musicians and music groups. This years concerts are:

Tickets are $8.00 each and can be purchased in advance at Peter and Annie's World Market or at the theatre on the night of the performance.

Summary:Spencer Pierce has just inherited his father's film studio and wants to make a few changes. The studio specializes in horror films and their biggest star is Alexander Moreau. Spencer has come to inform Moreau that he is not renewing his contract. Moreau offers to demonstrate that he is still one scary guy. His proposition: if he can scare Spencer out of his wits, he gets a contract and creative control. Moreau makes repeated attempts to scare Pierce, to convince him that he still has what it takes. Pierces chauffeur, Maxie, mixes it up with Moreaus maid, Maria Yocknestor, and Elisabeth Lizzie Borden tries to get in on the action by rubbing elbows with the actor and producer.

The musical stylings of Roger HarrisonSaturday July 28 at 7pm
The ETC Theater
Tickets at the door $5

Roger Harrison, long-time local musician, will perform with friends in concert at the ETC Theater on Saturday, July 28.

Roger is a well-known locally and nationally. He started playing at age 10, and joined the musicians union in 1964 at age 11. From 1964 through 1972, he was part of a family band called the Guitar Dusters that cut three 45 records.
The Guitar Duster's family band opened shows for various artists, including Waylon Jennings, Jerry Lee Lewis, Conway Twitty, Dave Dudley, Kitty wells, Archie Campbell, and Hank Williams Jr.

Roger then joined with his brother and toured the Midwest for three years. In 1977 he branched off to do a one man show.
Since then he has been writing original Christian music and performing for various churches and other events. He also started teaching guitar & bass guitar in 1972, and presently teaches at Barron County Campus in Rice Lake, Roger's Guitar Studio in Shell Lake, and the Dancing Bird Art & Music Gallery in Cumberland.

Roger recorded an album in 1977, cassette tapes in 1985, and continues to produce CDs to the present day.

Roger says he loves to play and share music with others. There is no greater pleasure than to teach others to enjoy music as much as I have through the years.

The Roger Harrison concert is part of ETCs continuing Local Musicians Concert Series. He will perform solo songs, and also share the stage with Nancy Beecroft and some of his talented guitar students.
The concert begins at 7pm. Admission is $5 at the door.

Don't miss ETC's production of The Canterville Ghost!

The Canterville Ghost is a wonderful comedy about an American family who purchases a Chase in England only to discover they have a guest! The events that follow make for a hilarious mix of scares with a wonderful cast. The Canterville Ghost will be running on stage at the ETC Community Theatre in Cumberland during the annual Rutabaga Festival. The show opens Wednesday, Aug. 22 and runs through Saturday, Aug. 25. Shows start at 7 p.m. each night and doors open at 6:30 p.m. Come join us for a wonderful laugh filled evening!

It starts Wed Aug 22nd
t plays Aug. 22-25 at 7:00!
Tickets are on sale now at Peter & Annie's for $8. Also sold at the door. BOO! :)

The Secret Garden:June 15 & 16 at 7:00. June 17, a 2:00 matinee.
June 21, 22, 23, at 7:00.
Tickets now on sale at Peter and Annies and also at the ETC door, on show nights.

The Cumberland ETC, brings to life, the literary classic youve loved for years. Mary Lennox, (double cast: Naomi Rodriguez & Kate Stone), known as a difficult child, is sent to live at her uncles estate in England after her parents pass away.

Misselthwaite Manor turns out to be a gloomy fortress. Her uncle, (Phil Warner), is rarely home, and his young son, Colin, (Ben Ankarlo), never leaves his room, convinced by Dr. Craven, (double cast: Micah Weltzin & Neal Weltzin), hes an incurable invalid.

To her surprise, Mary discovers a strange walled garden that has been locked up for years. With the assistance of Dickon, (Zach Foss), the gardeners apprentice, Mary brings the garden back to life and discovers Dickons amazing ability to communicate with animals. The garden seems to have a wonderful, magical effect on all who come into it.

This version also introduces the endearing Sowerby family, who add much laughter and love to this touching story. Mrs. Sowerby is played by Amanda Hammond, along with her Sowerby children, Nacole Rodriguez, Ethan Snowbank, Charlotte Shanahan, Colton Ritchie, KaLea Hammond, Joshua Painter, Elizabeth Painter, Cylie Ritchie and Indira Rodriguez.

It is directed by Dorene Weltzin and Diane Thorp.
Tickets are now on sale for $8 at Peter Annies, downtown Cumberland and at the door the night of performances.

Left to right in the photo standing, is Micah Weltzin (as Dr. Craven), Kate Dorn (standing in as the nurse, she actually plays Mary opposite nights of Naomi Rodriquez, who is pictured as Mary on the far right. Sitting is Ben Ankarlo, (as Colin.)

The BroadwayA female singing groupSaturday July 7 at 7pm
The ETC Theater
Tickets at the door $5

The Cumberland ETC Art Center will be featuring The BroadWay in the 2nd of its Local Music Concert Series.

The BroadWay concert will be Saturday July 7 at 7pm. The $5 tickets will be sold at the door. The BroadWay with it's present membership, has been together about 5 years, performing various entertainment venues including the "Pipe Dream Center", "Arts in the Park" programs, fraternal organizations and church groups, home parties and for other organizations wanting musical entertainment for a special event.

The group is composed of three very talented musicians. Sue Pruzek sings lead vocals and plays guitar and percussion. Marilyn Goodman sings vocals and performs on bass, saxophone, and flute. Kathy Turba is the third vocalist, and plays keyboards.

The BroadWay repertoire focuses heavily on classic jazz of the 40's, lots of Andrews Sisters tunes, with a smattering of blue grass and later popular classics. They are currently looking at prepping a small set of country hits and are ready to present a program of dance music in the event the audience wants to push the chairs back and get moving!

The three musicians provide an entertainment experience which will resonate with a broad audience. Their classic tunes will get feet tapping and hands clapping.

A Special ETC Choir Fundraiser: The Elvis ShowFeaturing Joe Sir and his Rockabilly Rebels Band
Saturday May 19
6pm dinner, show at 7pm
Das Lach Haus
$35 for dinner and show

Tickets are $8.00 and will be available at the Cumberland High School main office
and at the ETC theater door on nights of performances.

All Through The House is a Christmas play. It will be directed by Dorene Weltzin and Diane Thorp.

Performances will be December 2, 3, 4, and 8, 9, 10.

Christmas is approaching and William Garrett is a very happy man. His business is booming, his family is healthy, and his three closest friends are over for their weekly meeting of the Shakespeare Study Club where Shakespeare takes a back seat to poker and women aren't allowed. Then the trouble starts! The men are interrupted by William's frantic daughter, then his concerned wife, his domineering mother-in-law and, finally, the Reverend Fowler. As William's good spirits and economic well-being fly out the window, all are kept guessing who will finally gain the upper hand and reestablish the Christmas spirit.

Aug. 22: Mark Twain, will be at the Thomas St. Angelo Library, at 2:30 p.m., portrayed by Mike Clay and Jim Kerr as Stephen Foster. Music by John Ostrem (guitar) and Dave Evenson (Bass viol).

Rutabaga show, Aug. 26 & 27: "Conversation and Songs", of Dan Hoffmann and Friends, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets at the door for $5.

The cast in the front row, from left to right is Jake Richie, Troy Lynch, Jim Richie and in the back Chris Steinburg, Sara Peters and Samantha Hammes.

SYNOPSISThe 'Pump Boys' sell high octane on Highway 57 in Grand Ole Opry country and the 'Dinettes', Prudie and Rhetta Cupp, run the Double Cupp diner next door. Together they fashion an evening of country western songs that received unanimous raves on and off-Broadway. With heartbreak and hilarity, they perform on guitars, piano, bass and, yes, kitchen utensils.

THE MUSICMusic and Lyrics by Jim Wann. "Menu Song" by Debra Monk and Cass Morgan.
Songs from the hit Broadway show including:

THE CEMETERY CLUB By Ivan Menchell
Three Jewish widows meet once a month for tea before going to visit their husband's graves. Ida is sweet tempered and ready to begin a new life, Lucille is a feisty embodiment of the girl who just wants to have fun, and Doris is priggish and judgmental, particularly when Sam the butcher enters the scene. He meets the widows while visiting his wife's grave. Doris and Lucille squash the budding romance between Sam and Ida. They are guilt stricken when this nearly breaks Ida's heart. The Broadway production starred Eileen Heckart as Lucille.

Performances:
Friday - Sunday, April 29, 30 (7:00P.M.)& May 1(2:00P.M.)
Thursday - Saturday May 5, 6, 7(7:00P.M.)
Tickets $8.00
Available at Peter and Annie's or at the door.

Fruitcakes is a comedy/ drama, by Julian Wiles.December 4th, 9th, 10th 7:00 pm
December 5th, 11th 2:00 pm
Tickets are $8.00, sold at Peter and Annie's on Main, or at the door of the ETC.

Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen Christmas trees, 10,000 outdoor Christmas lights, a chicken pox epidemic, two southern spinsters, (Dorene Weltzin and Hope Vicich), an estranged old man, (Brian Keeler), a lost cat named Tutti Frutti and a Christmas hog named Buster and you've got the recipe for a fun filled and touching evening filled with holiday cheer. Into this world comes Jamie, (Ben Stone), a kid who has run away from home and come as far as his money will take him. At first he thinks this town's inhabitants are "nuttier than fruitcakes," but soon he comes to admire, appreciate and adore this nutty little town.

The play will be directed by Diane Thorp and Corey Graf. The production dates will be Dec. 4, 9, 10 at 7:00 p.m. and Dec. 5 and 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the ETC Theater, across from the Cumberland Elementary School. Tickets are $8 and will be sold at Peter and Annies on main street and at the door at ETC.

Kneeling are Lucas Graf and Walter Herrman II.
The back row, left to right are Micah Weltzin, Corey Graf, A.J. Becker, Ben Stone, Zack Foss and Brian Keeler.

Escanaba in Da MoonlightOctober 21st - 23rd and 28th - 30th

Thursday, Friday, Saturday each week 7:00 pm curtain Time at the ETC

Tickets sold ian advance at Peter & Annie's or at the door: $8.00 each
Ice Cold Leinenkugels and Deer Camp snacks available each night at the play.

ETC presents their Rutabaga comedy, "The Man with the Pointed Toes"Show times will be at 7 PM, Wednesday through Saturday, August 25-28.
Note there will not be a Sunday performance.
All tickets are $8.00 and are available at Peter and Annie's or at the door

Come enjoy the regional premiere of The Dixie Swim Club at The Cumberland Arts Center. Five Southern women, whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, set aside a long weekend every August to recharge their friendships. The play focuses on four of those weekends and spans a period of thirty-three years.

Sheree, played by Barb Lynch, is the spunky team captain, who desperately tries to maintain her organized and 'perfect' life, and continues to be the groups leader.

Dinah (Val Sutherland), the wise-cracking overachiever, is a career dynamo.

Lexie (Sarah Lundquist), pampered and outspoken, is determined to hold on to her looks and youth as long as possible.

The self-deprecating and acerbic Vernadette (Sharai Hefty), acutely aware of the dark cloud that hovers over her life, has decided to just give in and embrace the chaos.

And sweet, eager-to-please Jeri-Neal (Diane Thorp) experiences a late entry into motherhood that takes them all by surprise.

As their lives unfold and the years pass, these women increasingly rely on one another, through advice and raucous repartee to get through the challenges (men, sex, marriage, parenting, divorce, aging) that life flings at them. "The Dixie Swim Club" is the story of these five unforgettable women - a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever.

The play is directed by Travis Thorp and Ann Ethen. Showtime will be 7 PM on Thursday through Saturday, July 8-10, with a 2PM matinee on Sunday, July 11. Tickets will be $8 and available at Peter and Annies.

Characters in order of appearance:

Tom Coteral. Texas cowboy and the hero of show. He won a ranch in a poker game, and it turns out to have oil all under it.

Pamela Wright. Gold-digger who followed her Dad out to the ranch to meet this intriguing (rich) fellow

Randall Wright. Oil company executive, Pamela's father

Jose. Mexican cook at the ranch

Lem Reed. Cowhand, good guy

Hank Stover. Cowhand, provides comic relief, a bit more of a buffoon than Lem

Link Hanson. Wise ranch foreman, a bit older that the other cowboys

Florence Raines. The tooter (tutor) Tom hires to help him " git some culture" so he can impress Pamela

We will also be looking for tech people for this show.
If you are interested, come on down, and if you know someone else who might be interested, send him or her down. Thanks, Dave Evenson

THE BIGGEST THIEF IN TOWN: Dates: April 30, May 1,2,7,8,9 Sunday is a 2:00 matinee

Our spring play is a comedy by Dalton Trumbo. Set in 1948, a small town undertaker played by Dave Evenson, and the local Doctor, played by Dan Hoffmann set out to steal the body of John Troybalt (Brian Keeler), the richest man in town. The editor of the paper (Phil Amundson) and pharmacist (Steve Wickre) aid and abet them in their efforts and the consequences. Troybalts associate (Mike Clay) personal Doctor (Jim Kerr) and night nurse (Jaime Helgeson) show up just to keep things hopping. Meanwhile the undertakers daughter (Ericka Strickland) is involved in a young romance with a less than successful young man (Aaron Effertz). Mike Clay and Dorene Weltzin are doing their best to direct this cast of characters.

Mike Clay and Jeff and Chris Hopkins-Hile were in this production in 1978 at The Red Barn. Any time you see them talking about this show you'll see big grins and laughter as they recall the humor of this well written comedy. Come see it and you'll be laughing too. The shows are at 7 PM on the Friday and Saturday nights, with both Sundays being 2 PM matinees. This show would be rated PG-13 for language and drinking scenes.

FOOTLOOSE (C.H.S. Musical): March 25-27 at 7:00, and Sun. March 28 at 2:00. Tickets are now available, for this show, in the High School office for $8. Performances will be at the ETC.

For the second year in a row, ETC and Friends of the Cumberland Library are joining efforts to bring you dinner and a show. This years theme is Cumberlands Got Talent, and the line-up for the show proves that point. All ages are represented, from the youngest middle schoolers, Mariah Capra and Carly Haynie performing a duet to a Taylor Swift song to the Mens Chorus.

Actress/singer Sharai Hefty will perform Crazy made popular by Patsy Kline and shell put a big smile on your face with her rendition of Hey Big Spender. Comedian Angel Benes will pantomime her way through Shes Got You another Patsy Kline song.

Representing young adults we have Karen Matthys singing two country western songs and the talented singer/musician/song writers Bethany Nash, and David Hopkins Hile with friends Scott Melby and Cayla Kluver.

Finally, the group Third Sunday Jam, which includes several of the previously named performers, will entertain us with music and song.

The Friends of the Library benefit dinner will be served preceding the show at the American Legion Hall. Profits from this years dinner will be used to purchase a sound system for the Library. On the menu are delicious homemade chicken and biscuits, dessert, and coffee or milk. Entertaining throughout the dinner hour will be the very talented violinist, Anna Ruth Hagen. The American Legion Hall is walking distance to the ETC Art Center, so you only need to park once.

The American Legion is located at 1225 Veterans Ave. dinner is served from 5:00 6:30. The ETC Art Center is located at 1595 2nd Ave, doors open at 6:30, show begins at 7:00 PM.

Tickets for the dinner are $4.00 for ages 10 and under and $8.00 for everyone else. Tickets for the show are $5.00. Both can be purchased in advance at Peter and Annies 1387 2nd Ave. in Cumberland or at the door.

Christmas Belles: Dec. 4-6 and 10-12
A brief synopsis of the play: a church Christmas program spins hilariously out of control in this Southern farce about squabbling sisters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep and a reluctant Elvis impersonator.

DRINKING HABITS, By Tom Smith
Tickets are now available at Peter and Annies and at the door.

Show Times: August 26th -29th 2009 at 7:00 pm

Directed by: Eva Srubar

Characters: Sister Philamena, a nun- Diane Thorp

Sister Augusta, a nun- Dorene Weltzin

George, 20s, a handyman- Aaron Effertz

Mother Superior, - Deanna Snow

Paul, 24, a reporter- Corey Graf

Sally, 20s, a reporter- Margritte Graf

Sister Mary Catherine, a novice nun- Bethany Nash

Father Chenille, - Josh Thornwall

Time/Place: 1960s in the convent of the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing

DRINKING HABITS is a farce in two acts. Sister Augusta, (Dorene Weltzin), and Sister Philamena, (Diane Thorp), have been secretly making and selling wine for years to keep the doors of their small convent open. But when their wine suddenly wins an award worth a half-million dollars, newspaper reporters (and former fianc?es) Paul, (Corey Graf), and Sally, (Margritte Graf), begin searching for the winners.

As Sally and Paul spy on the convent, they are caught by Mother Superior, (Deanna Snow). Sally pretends to be the new nun Mother Superior was expecting, and Paul claims to be a visiting priest. But when Father Chenille (Josh Thornwall), sees Paul, he suspects Rome of sending out a new priest to replace him. And when the actual new nun, Sister Mary Catherine, (Bethany Nash), does arrive, Mother Superior believes her to be a spy from Rome, sent out to investigate the convent.

Chaos ensues as Augusta and Philamena secretly try to press more wine, Paul and Sally try to find the winemakers, and Mother Superior and Father Chenille spy on the suspected spies.

A traditional, laugh-out-loud farce for the whole family that will keep audiences laughing well after the curtain call!

ETC presents the classic Broadway Hit Musical Fiddler on the Roof the 2nd and 3rd weekends in June. Jerry Bock, Joseph Stein and Sheldon Harnick have adapted Sholom Aleichems stories of Tevye the Dairyman to this wonderful family play. Best known songs from this play include If I were a Rich Man and Sunrise, Sunset but there are another dozen or so songs that you may find yourself humming upon leaving the theater.

Fiddler depicts the life of Tevye and Golde and their five daughters and other friends as they make their way as Jews in pre revolutionary Russia, about 1905. Much of the story focuses on the marriages of three of the daughters, each one threatening tradition more than the last, as well as increasing troubles with the Russian authorities.

Dan Hoffman plays the lead the first week and Ron Ruppel the second week, and Val Dehline plays the part of Golde. Their daughters are played by Bethany Nash, Zoe Hopkins-Hile, Lauren Dehline, Caitlin Harris and Natasha Rodriguez.

Steel Magnolias pictures...High School Play: Acting Can Be Murder by Eddie McPherson.It is a backstage mystery-comedy. The show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 26, 27, & 28 at 7:00 P.M. We will not have a Sunday show. The tickets are only $5.00 and will only be sold at the high school office.

Anne of Green GablesThis new dramatization captures the charm and excitement of L.M. Montgomery's enduring classic about an orphan girl, Anne Shirley, from her first encounter with her austere guardian to her thrilling graduation from Queen's Academy.

The play faithfully recreates the memorable events and characters from the brilliant novel. All the tragedies and triumphs that mark Anne's growth from adolescence to early adulthood are here: her friendship with Diana, her feuds with Gilbert, her adoration of Matthew, the mistaken wine bottle, the cake disaster, the broken leg, the scholastic achievements, and the saving of Green Gables.

Whether the playgoer is an "old friend" of Anne's or meeting her for the first time, this play will solidify a lasting friendship between the audience and one of literature's most unforgettable characters.

Cumberland High School students will take the stage the end of this month with the Tony Award Winning musical Guys and Dolls written by Frank Loesser.

Guys and Dolls revolves around Nathan Detroit (Travis Thorp), trying to juggle his two loves: Miss Adelaide (Hannah Kollock) and being the organizer of the oldest established permanent floating crap game in New York. Detroit eventually bets fellow gambler Sky Masterson (David Hile) that he can't make the next girl he sees fall in love with him. The next girl he sees happens to be Miss Sarah Brown (Sophia Allen), a pure-at-heart Salvation Army-type reformer. Throw in a mix of hotbox dancers and sinful crapshooters and the stage is set for a hilarious evening of complications. Come enjoy the show as twenty-five high school students light up the stage with singing and dancing.

This production has been a collaborative effort from the start. The director of the show is Ann Ethen, the vocal director is Michael Pechman and the orchestra director is Dan Hopkins.

The performance dates are March 27, 28 and 29 at 7:00 P.M. and March 30 at 2:00 P.M at Cumberlands ETC Fine Arts Center. Tickets on available now for $8.00 in advance in the Cumberland High School office.

Humorist Jean Shepherd's memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself. The consistent response: "You'll shoot your eye out."

All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family's temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys' experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie's father winning a lamp shaped like a woman's leg in a net stocking.

Brian Keeler plays the narrator- Ralph looking back at his childhood.
The family is played by Dorene Weltzin as Mother, Andy Bangsberg as The Old Man, Jesse Hokanson as Ralphie and Reid Olson as brother Randy.

All shows are at the ETC
Tickets are $7.00 and can be purchased at Peter and Annies.

Escanaba in Da Moonlight.

Riddle: What do you get when you put 5 rugged men in long johns, one sassy woman in leather, a case of Leinenkugels, a jar of moose testicle milkshake and a jar of porcupine pee? Answer: One of the funniest plays of the year!

"Escanaba in Da Moonlight" is a fabulously funny comedy about the men of the Soady family. Each year as hunting season begins, they trek to their cabin north of Escanaba, in Michigans Upper Peninsula to drink, hang out and bag a buck! This particular year, Reuben Soady is in danger of becoming the oldest member in the history of the family to never bag a buck , or witout venison as dey say. In an effort to change his luck, he alters several of the time-tested rituals of the Soady deer camp, but only succeeds in fueling a series of strange and unexplainable events! In the words of Patriarch Albert Soady , Dat year was as tense as a mooses butt durin fly season.

So join the cast and enjoy this hilarious tale of humor, horror & heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book. Show up dressed for deer camp (blaze orange) and get your first beer free!

Cactus Butte, USA

Travis Thorp plays the hero cowboy, and Amy Braml is the new school marm and heroine. Down at Sams (Diane Thorp) Saloon you will meet ruffians played by Phil Warner and John Westin and Saloon singers played by Jaime Helgeson, Karen Matthys and Zo? Hile, as well as cowboys played by Jim Kerr, Jim Bryce, Jim Schweiger, and Abraham Ortiz. Livia Barker, Juliana Braml, Libby DeJardin, Caitlin Harris and Micah Weltzin play the school children and Craig Bucher, Jeanne Beck, George Strom, Sharai Hefty, Bob Chubb, Roxie Matthys and Dave Evenson play the good townsfolk. Larry Vetter on banjo, Diane Stone on violin and various guitarists accompany. Dave Evenson wrote and directs Cactus Butte, USA.

Show dates are Thursday- Saturday, August 23-25, at 7PM, and Sunday August 26 at 5 PM. All admissions are $7.00 at the door; there are no advance tickets. Take a break from the midway and split your sides laughing in air-conditioned comfort at The Cumberland ETC.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat:The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Joseph is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams, and is his father's favorite son. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless.

The Cast:Phil Warner and David Hile will alternate in the title role, and Ann Ethen sings the Narrators role.

The Herdmans show up at the church Christmas Pageant tryouts and everyone is horrified. Why?.....

Because they are horrible children - they steal, burn down buildings, and terrorize the neighborhood. In fact, their classmates only feel safe from them at church. That is, until an innocent comment brings the Herdmans into church and starring in the annual Christmas pageant. Soon even the congregation is running for cover!

But who would have guessed that the parents, teachers, children, and especially the Herdmans could end up discovering the true meaning of the season?

Find out why everyone is in such an uproar over the Herdmans, and how they turn a series of disasters into what everyone agrees is The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Dates:Thursday, November 30, 7:00 pm (Red Cast)

Friday, December 1, 7:00 pm (Green Cast)

Saturday, December 2, 7:00 pm (Red Cast)

Sunday, December 3, 2:00 pm (Green Cast)

Thursday, December 7, 7:00 pm (Red Cast)

Friday, December 8, 7:00 pm (Green Cast)

Saturday, December 9, 7:00 pm (Red Cast)

Performances at the Cumberland ETC.

Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the door, or pre-purchased at Cumberland Federal Bank.

Have you ever had a carefully orchestrated plan completely fall apart? If so, you will certainly be able to appreciate this years zany comedy. A very ordinary London cabby finds himself in a very extraordinary predicament.. He has two wives, and two homes.! Unfortunately for him, one small act of heroism , two well intentioned but persistent detectives, two intrusive neighbors, and two increasingly agitated wives, threaten to unravel his world! Youll be sure to enjoy his discomfort as things heat up!

My Town Pictures, a 4-time Telly Award winner, produces "community movies", meaning that an original script is written in cooperation with a community and then produced using all local citizens as actors, crew and musicians. They also strive to include local culture and history within the story whenever possible, to make the movie unique to the community.
Previous My Town Pictures include:
"By Heart" and "The Unbroken Circle" (Amery, WI)
"Grace" (Spooner, WI).
They have also produced movies in Iowa and Minnesota as well as Wisconsin.
Show Times:Friday May 5th 6:00 pm & 8:30 pm
Saturday May 6th 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 7:30 pm
Sunday May 7th 1:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 7:30 pm
Movie length: 1 hour & 45 minutes

Location: Cumberland ETC

Prices:
$5.00 regular admission
$3.00 Child (12 and under)

Tickets will be available at Cumberland Federal Bank starting Monday, April 17th.
Reservations may also be made by calling 822-3222.
There is limited seating. Any unsold tickets will be available for purchase at the door.

Special thanks to:Carl Proescholt of dca Manufacturing for the use of the projector

March 30, 31 (sold out)
April 1, 2 (sold out)
Sunday April 2nd 7:00 pm show still has some seats available (sold out).

Cumberland High School drama has been working on this years musical Grease to be performed March 30, 31, April 1 and 2. The performances of Grease will take you back to the bobby sox, gum chewing rock n roll music of the 1950s. The story is set during Rydell High's spirited class of '59. The hubcap stealing, hot rod loving Greasers consist of Travis Thorp, Kyle Pherson, Derek Theese, James Hoisington, Co Walker. The Pink Lady wise cracking girls include Elizabeth Brown, Kerri Dehline, Amanda Dusel, and Shanna Webb.

The plot focuses on the hip Danny Zuko (Thorp) and wholesome Sandy Dumbrowski (Erica Sampson) as they try to resolve the problems of their mutual attraction. Additional cast members include: Jodi Krueger, Cammy Gidio, Hannah Kollock, Ole Odden, Ben Amundson, Dustin Degolier, Lindsey Koser, David Hile, Joe Eastman and Sarah Jergenson. The cast sings and dances its way through such nostalgic scenes as the pajama party, the prom, the burger palace, and the drive in movie. The direction of the play is a joint effort between Ann Ethen, Dan Hopkins and Phil Warner. The musical Grease Pit includes the talents of Dustin Degolier, Jordan Bowen, Jay Blaskowski, Brita Renstrom and Lindsey Neby.

Greases eight year run made Broadway history and its recent long running revival put it among today's most popular musicals. This 1950s rock n roll production has become a household name, thanks to a highly successful film version and a score by the songwriting team of Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey.

Performances will be held at the Cumberland Fine Arts Center. Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows will begin at 7:00 P.M. Sundays performance will be a matinee starting at 2:00 P.M. Tickets for $6 can be purchased in advance at the Cumberland High School office or $8 at the door if seats are still available. Any questions call 822-5121.